Edmunds has a report on the new Jaguar XF 2.7D, a diesel-powered version of the carmaker's stunning new sedan. The small twin-turbo 6-cylinder makes 204 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque, which puts it somewhat below that of the Mercedes E-Class BlueTEC, but still powerful enough for relatively fast acceleration: 0-60 in 7.7 seconds with the car's six-speed ZF semi-automatic. The engine itself is a marvel of technology, however—and is good for an average of 31 US mpg.

"This is a very modern diesel," the report said. "The long-stroke (81.0mm bore by 88.0mm stroke) V6 displaces 2,720cc and the DOHC cylinder heads feature four valves per cylinder. It employs common-rail direct injection with fast-acting piezo electric injectors and a drive-by-wire throttle. The block is made from compacted graphite iron (CGI) and the cylinder heads are made from aluminum, which help make this the lightest diesel of its size and type, just 33 pounds heavier than a comparable gasoline-fueled V6, Jaguar says. There are twin variable-geometry turbochargers with electronic control and an air-to-air intercooler, and the compression ratio is 17.3:1."

Unfortunately, Jaguar has no comparable system to Mercedes' to reduce particulate emissions, so this cat will stay in the U.K. for now.

(Image credit: Jaguar Media Resource)